Sidwell targets Spurs return

Villa midfielder recovered from calf problem

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 5th September 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Sidwell targets Spurs return

Sidwell: Feeling fit

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Steve Sidwell is hoping to face Tottenham after coming through 90 minutes for the reserves unscathed.

The midfielder, who joined Aston Villa from Chelsea over the summer, has been sidelined with a calf injury since the end of July.

However, he returned to action for Villa's second-string side against Stoke earlier in the week and completed the full match.

Sidwell felt no discomfort and remains confident that he will be fit for the clash at White Hart Lane on 15th September.

"I feel good - my calf was fine throughout the game. I've not had a problem with it," Sidwell told the club's official website.

"The game was very helpful because it upped my fitness levels.

"It wasn't the plan to play the whole 90 minutes. I was going to play the first half and then see how I felt.

Strong

"As the game went on, I felt strong so I stayed on and it was good to get a full match under the belt.

"The reserve game was a good competitive one and that's what I need at the moment."

Sidwell realises that it is important for everyone in the squad to be fit as Villa prepare for a busy period, although he is anticipating fierce competition for places.

He explained: "I'll be available for the Tottenham match if I can get through the reserve game on Monday. I can't see that being a problem.

"That week - where we play Spurs, Litex Lovech and West Brom - is evidence of why we need a big squad. They are three massive games and I'm sure the manager will want to use everyone in his group.

"I'm sure when everyone is fit, we'll all be giving the gaffer a headache but that is what he's expecting.

"There's certainly going to be good competition for places in midfield in the coming weeks."